Published: 2023-06-26 Author: Mike Apostol
With Spring finally here, you'll see LHSC's Clintar groundskeepers out and about doing their usual landscaping. You may have also noticed in recent years that they've been transitioning to battery-operated hand tools like blowers, trimmers,
and hedge clippers. Many homeowners are also ditching their gas-powered equipment for battery-powered alternatives. Let's take a closer look at why people are moving towards battery-powered lawn maintenance equipment from a sustainability perspective. Specifically, let's look at lawnmowers for more eco-friendly alternatives.
Recently, battery-electric lawnmowers have made a splash in the market, promising lower emissions and easier maintenance. But are these electric mowers worth the switch?
Let's explore the pros and cons of choosing a battery-electric lawnmower over a gasoline-powered one.
AIR POLLUTION: A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
Gasoline-powered lawnmowers contribute significantly to air pollution, releasing harmful emissions like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a gas-powered mower produces as much air pollution per hour as a car driving for three hours.
On the other hand, battery-electric lawnmowers produce zero emissions at the point of use, making them a cleaner choice for our environment. Moreover, as our Ontario electricity grid provides a clean and low emissions source, the environmental impact of generating that electricity is meagre.
MAINTENANCE: KEEP IT SIMPLE
Gasoline-powered mowers require regular maintenance to keep running smoothly, which can be time-consuming and costly. Tasks like changing the oil, replacing spark plugs, and cleaning the carburetor are essential to prevent engine damage and ensure optimal performance.
Battery-electric mowers, however, have fewer moving parts and require minimal maintenance, as they don't need oil changes, spark plugs, or carburetors. This simplicity translates to cost savings and less hassle over time. Keep the battery charged, and you're good to go.
PROS OF BATTERY-ELECTRIC LAWNMOWERS:
Typical charging dock and battery for a battery electric lawnmower. Zero emissions at the point of use: Battery-electric mowers produce no harmful emissions while operating, reducing air pollution and contributing to a cleaner environment.
- Quieter operation: Electric mowers are significantly quieter than their gasoline counterparts, making them a more pleasant choice for the user and neighbuors.
- Low maintenance: With fewer moving parts, electric mowers require minimal upkeep, saving you time and money on maintenance tasks.
- No fuel costs: With no need to purchase gasoline, battery-electric mowers can help you save on fuel costs over time.
- It can be folded and rested vertically to reduce its storage space.
CONS OF BATTERY-ELECTRIC LAWNMOWERS:
- Runtime: Electric mowers rely on battery life, which can limit your mowing time. Larger lawns may require an extra battery or recharging breaks, extending the overall mowing process. Purchasing the correct battery size for your lawn is essential, which may cost more upfront.
- Battery replacement: While they'll last for many years, batteries will eventually need to be replaced, which can be an additional expense.
- Reduced power: Although electric mowers have made great strides in power output, some entry-level models may still struggle with heavy or tall grass compared to gas-powered models.
- Upfront cost: Battery-electric mowers can have a higher initial price tag, although this cost can be offset over time by reduced maintenance and fuel expenses.
*Do you have a small yard? Consider going even greener with a manual push lawnmower! No noise, no pollution, and just some elbow grease required.
